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Lot Essay
Perhaps one of the most understated and impressive timepieces from the recent past, the Patek Philippe reference 3939HR combines two of the most magnificent complications: a minute repeater and a tourbillon. Produced from 1992 to 2009, reference 3939HR is an exceedingly rare model with only an estimated 35 examples ever created in rose gold, meaning that two to three were created a year. Further evidence of its rarity can be identified in the movement number as Caliber RTO 27 PS was created in sequence, marking the present lot as the 130th example and one of the last ever crafted with its production year in 2009.
At a quick glance, reference 3939HR appears as a simplistic “time-only” wristwatch with a modest 33m rose gold case, but a closer inspection reveals the opulent details of this timepiece. At the bottom of the dial, one may notice “Email” rather than “Swiss” signifying that the dial is made from enamel, specifically by Donzé in Le Locle. The watch also carries distinguished features such as hand finished and applied Breguet numerals and Breguet hands in a matching rose gold. An important feature that is seldom seen in Patek Philippe watches is that the movement number has been reproduced in the subsidiary seconds register, further identifying its number in the run of production. The left side of the Ateliers Réunis (Geneva Key 28) case exhibits a razor-sharp slider for the minute repeater, warranting one to flip over the timepiece.
On the rear, Caliber RTO 27 PS is visible through the sapphire caseback (an additional solid gold caseback is included) and it may be one of the most beautiful and refined movements made by Patek Philippe. Unlike many of their calibers, the Côtes de Genève have been concentrically finished, giving way to the flowing architecture of the movement. The elevated tourbillon bridge and repeater strikers have been perfectly black polished, aiding in contrast and beauty. Most distinctive, the minute wheel has been skeletonized with five jovial, meandering arms. The wheel is a joyous feature that is captivating to view, thanks to its rounded polishing and interior angles. Completing the package, reference 3939’s minute repeater is a world-class Stratovarius. The chime is bright, precise, and quite possibly one of the greatest instruments ever produced. The present lot delivers “full set” from the original owner and is an exceedingly rare opportunity to own an “under-the-radar" grand complication from Patek Philippe.
At a quick glance, reference 3939HR appears as a simplistic “time-only” wristwatch with a modest 33m rose gold case, but a closer inspection reveals the opulent details of this timepiece. At the bottom of the dial, one may notice “Email” rather than “Swiss” signifying that the dial is made from enamel, specifically by Donzé in Le Locle. The watch also carries distinguished features such as hand finished and applied Breguet numerals and Breguet hands in a matching rose gold. An important feature that is seldom seen in Patek Philippe watches is that the movement number has been reproduced in the subsidiary seconds register, further identifying its number in the run of production. The left side of the Ateliers Réunis (Geneva Key 28) case exhibits a razor-sharp slider for the minute repeater, warranting one to flip over the timepiece.
On the rear, Caliber RTO 27 PS is visible through the sapphire caseback (an additional solid gold caseback is included) and it may be one of the most beautiful and refined movements made by Patek Philippe. Unlike many of their calibers, the Côtes de Genève have been concentrically finished, giving way to the flowing architecture of the movement. The elevated tourbillon bridge and repeater strikers have been perfectly black polished, aiding in contrast and beauty. Most distinctive, the minute wheel has been skeletonized with five jovial, meandering arms. The wheel is a joyous feature that is captivating to view, thanks to its rounded polishing and interior angles. Completing the package, reference 3939’s minute repeater is a world-class Stratovarius. The chime is bright, precise, and quite possibly one of the greatest instruments ever produced. The present lot delivers “full set” from the original owner and is an exceedingly rare opportunity to own an “under-the-radar" grand complication from Patek Philippe.